Fair Funding for Rural Hospitals Act

# Fair Funding for Rural Hospitals Act - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would guarantee that rural hospitals treating many low-income patients receive a minimum of $20 million per state annually from Medicaid (the federal health program for low-income individuals) for fiscal years 2025-2029. These extra payments—called "disproportionate-share" payments—are meant to help hospitals that serve larger numbers of poor and uninsured patients. The bill protects this funding level even if other budget cuts or funding changes would normally reduce it, and it increases the amount each year to account for inflation. **Who It Affects:** Rural hospitals and the low-income patients they serve would be the primary beneficiaries.

The bill aims to ensure these hospitals maintain financial stability despite treating many uninsured and Medicaid patients who may not generate sufficient revenue to cover costs. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. It was introduced by Senator John Barrasso (R-WY).